Evidence to date: ranibizumab and its potential in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading and preventable cause of childhood blindness worldwide. Although laser photocoagulation remains the gold standard for treatment, the off-label use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy to treat ROP, particularly posterior zone I disease, is increasing. Although initial studies on anti-VEGF therapy for ROP have focused on bevacizumab, recent studies have proposed that ranibizumab may be a safer and more effective alternative for use in this population. This review updates recent evidence regarding the use of ranibizumab in the management of ROP.